The political temperature in Rajasthan is set to soar as the state assembly's budget session commences tomorrow, January 28. This session is expected to be a stormy affair as the Bhajanlal Sharma-led government prepares to table several significant bills while the opposition remains poised to challenge the treasury benches on multiple fronts, while the session will kick off with the traditional Governor's address, outlining the state's achievements and future vision.
Governor's Address and Initial Proceedings
On the first day, the session will begin with the Governor's address to the house, while following the speech, the assembly will pay tribute to departed leaders and former members. As per tradition, the house will be adjourned for the day after the obituary references. Later in the day, the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) will meet to finalize the detailed schedule for the entire session, including the duration of debates and the timing for various legislative businesses.
A Two-Phase Legislative Journey
The budget session is planned to be conducted in two distinct phases. The first phase, starting tomorrow, is expected to last until late February, featuring approximately 20 sittings. A detailed discussion on the Governor's address is slated for three to four days, after which the government will provide its official response, while following this, a brief recess is anticipated before the focus shifts entirely to the state budget and other legislative matters.
Budget Presentation on February 11
The most crucial date of the session is February 11, when the state budget for the upcoming fiscal year will be presented. This budget is highly anticipated as it will reflect the government's economic priorities and social welfare commitments. Citizens are looking forward to announcements regarding infrastructure development, agricultural support, and youth employment schemes.
Key Bills: Disturbed Area and Local Body Reforms
The government is set to introduce several landmark legislations during this session. Among the most talked-about is the 'Disturbed Area Bill 2026'. Also, the government plans to amend the Panchayati Raj and Municipalities Acts to remove the two-child eligibility criterion for contesting local body elections. This move is expected to have a significant impact on local governance and political participation in the state, while more than half a dozen other bills are also in the pipeline.
Opposition Strategy and All-Party Meeting
The opposition, led by Tika Ram Jully, has prepared a comprehensive strategy to corner the government on issues like law and order, administrative decisions, and alleged irregularities. To ensure the smooth functioning of the house, Speaker Vasudev Devnani has convened an all-party meeting today at 3 PM, while the meeting will see participation from Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and other senior leaders, where the Speaker is expected to appeal for cooperation and meaningful dialogue.
BJP's Internal Strategy Session
Ahead of the session, the BJP legislative party will meet this evening at the Chief Minister's residence. Chaired by CM Bhajanlal Sharma, the meeting will focus on floor management and preparing ministers to effectively counter the opposition's queries, while the ruling party aims to maintain a strong front in the assembly while ensuring that its legislative agenda is passed without major hurdles.